By Graeme Young

Reports suggest a sale of the rugged centre-half could alert long-term admirers Napoli and the Rossoneri but the club chief would rather he stayed at the Brazilian outfit

Brazilian side Vasco da Gama have given their clearest indication yet that they would sell defender Dede, as long as the price is right.

Reports claim the financially stricken club, who have struggled to pay players' wages, could have to sell the highly-rated Brazilian with Serie A sides Napoli and Milan among the interested suitors alongside Corinthians and Liverpool.

Club president Roberto Dinamite told Sky Sports a sale is likely, but he is against it from a personal point of view, he said: “The position of Dede is very clear. The financial situation of the club is delicate, so the player could leave, although personally I would not sell him.

“Dede is a fantastic player, fabulous. If he could stay would be great, he is one of the best in the world in his role, but the future also depends on him, he has a contract until 2015 and may have important decisions to make."